Post-Olympic Period

Overview:

During the 1980 Olympics, the Olympic Regional Development Authority was created to manage the facilities used during the Winter Games. ORDA operates Whiteface Mountain, the Olympic Sports Complex at Mt. Van Hoevenberg, and the Olympic ice and jumping complexes. ORDA's plan after the 1980 Olympics was to ensure year-round use of the Olympic facilities in and around Lake Placid. As host to national and international championships, the Authority has brought millions of athletes, spectators, and visitors from around the world to the Adirondack region. By using the Olympic venues it increases the economic and social benefits of the Olympic Region.

Ironman Triathlon
Lake Placid signed a 5 year contract to hold the Ironman Triathlon every summer starting in 1999. The Ironman consists of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and a 2.6 mile run, all to be completed within 17 hours. The swim starts the race in Mirror lake and continues on a bike race to Keene, through Upper Jay, and continues past Whiteface Mountain to Lake Placid. The run circles Mirror Lake, travels by the Mackenzie-Intervale Ski Jumping complex and ends the race on the Olympic Oval.

ESPNGreat Outdoor Games

The four day event features fishing, timber events, shooting and sporting dogs. The Great Outdoor Games took place July 20-23 at the Olympic Oval, North Elba Showgrounds, Mirror Lake, and the Ausable River. The event brought 15,000 spectators and 200 competitors from around the world.

GoodwillGames

The first-ever Winter Goodwill Games were held in Lake Placid February 17-20, 2000. 442 athletes from 22 countries came to the Adirondack mountains to test their greatness. Athletes slid, skied, jumped, and skated on the snow and ice at Mt. Van Hoevenburg, Whiteface Mountain, Mackenzie-Intervale Ski Jump Complex, and the Olympic Center.

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